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(1919-2003)
Military Decorations and Awards
Bronze Star Medal awarded for superior service or bravery. This medal was awarded for having qualified for the Combat Infantryman Badge.
Army Good Conduct Medal presented to enlisted soldiers for three continuous years of honorable service.
American Campaign Medal given to members of the Armed Forces for service in the American Theater of Operations during a specific campaign period.
World War II Victory Medal presented by a grateful nation to all who participated in bringing about victory in World War II.
European-African-Middle Eastern Campaign Medal with two bronze service stars.
Combat Infantryman Badge.
The Honorable Service Lapel Button - World War II.
The Sharpshooter Badge with Rifle Bar.
The Marksman Badge with Tank Bar.
The medals indicate the
quality and commitment of Van Haute's 13 months of service, but they don't
reveal the variety of tasks he performed, including night patrols, serving as a
guard on a prisoner transport, and being part of the first wave at Salerno in
Italy.
Cotton Van Haute of Aurora, MI, was among the first wave of American
troops making the initial landing in occupied territory during the war. "It was
rough," Van Haute said in recalling the historic invasion. It was reported that
half of the 36th Division was killed or wounded in the battle, he said.
"Letters From Boys in the Service": somewhere in Italy, Oct. 28, 1943 -
Dear Friends and Folks Back at Home:-
Haven't seen Edward Meyer or
Joe (John) Brey since leaving Africa. Joe may be here. Ted Cook, Albert Hoaglund
and Henry Van Haute are with me. They have seen action and plenty of it.
Van Haute came through with flying colors (he should, as being one of my boys,
ahem). He and another good soldier of my gang, single handed, destroyed two
machine gun nests while under heavy fire, which included everything but the
kitchen sink. They have been recommended for the silver star for gallantry and
bravery in action. Looks as though its on the way. Hope they get it. Hats off to
Mrs. Van Haute and his folks, they have someone to be proud of.
Fourth of July came late for the boys, but with plenty of interest. Mail has
been coming good for the boys, sorry we can't return the favor more often. We
sure will miss our deer hunting this fall, but the type of hunting we do, saves
us a whole sum of $2.50 for a license and no bag limit, horns or no horns. Love
to all from the boys over here,
Cpl. John J. Vross, 36236460
APO--36, % Postmaster,
New York, NY
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Mr. Van Haute receiving his WWII medals from Bart Stupak, 1997. |
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